HC Deb 10 March 1926 vol 192 cc2261-2
4. Captain FAIRFAX

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he has received any report of the circumstances in which Lieutenant Macnamara was arrested at Sousse, in Tunisia, and imprisoned for 15 days among Arab criminals; and if he will ascertain whether this officer has been released and, if he be still awaiting trial, if he will ensure that he receives assistance in his defence and treatment proper to a British subject?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Full reports in regard to the imprisonment of Mr. Macnamara have been received from His Majesty's Consul-General at Tunis, who has made repeated and vigorous representations to the local authorities against the treatment accorded to the accused. Mr. Macnamara is now on bail, and counsel has been engaged for his defence. His Majesty's Consul-General is carefully watching the case and will continue to give the accused every possible assistance and advice.

Captain FAIRFAX

In the event of this officer having been wrongfully imprisoned, will the British Consul assist him to recover damages?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

I think we must wait till the evidence has been heard.

Mr. R. S. HUDSON

Is not this a case in which we might make representations to Paris?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

As a matter of fact, representations have been made to Paris.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Is the Consul-General sending any report on the allegations of extraordinary treatment suffered by Lieut. Macnamara in the gaol and at the hands of the judge of first instance?

Mr. LOCKER-LAMPSON

Yes; we have had full reports of this case.

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